Handbook, Key Policies, and Procedures

The Handbook for Families, Staff, and WVU Students contains detailed information on our operations and legal compliance.

• Download: WVU ELI Handbook (PDF)
• Acknowledgement: Parents are required to sign a form annually acknowledging they have read and discussed these policies.

Health & Attendance

Children must be toilet trained to attend. Attendance follows the Monongalia County Schools policy, and families are asked to notify the school of any absences.

Behavior Management

We use positive reinforcement and respectful guidance. Corporal punishment, humiliation, or withholding food are strictly prohibited.

Peanut-Free Environment

To protect children with severe allergies, ELI is a peanut-free zone; no peanut-containing products are permitted on the premises.

Safety Drills

We conduct monthly fire drills and developmentally appropriate “snowball drills” (active shooter drills) twice each semester.

Mandated Reporting

In accordance with the Child Protective Services Act, all staff are mandated reporters of suspected child abuse or neglect.

Vacation Days

The Early Learning Institute follows the University semester schedule and is closed on all University holidays and when WVU students are not in session. Parents will receive a schedule with specific closure dates.

School Cancellations

The WVU Early Learning Institute operates independently of Monongalia County Schools and does not follow the county school system’s decisions regarding weather-related delays, cancellations, or closures.

In the event that West Virginia University announces a closure or delay, the WVU Early Learning Institute will follow the University’s guidance. In all other circumstances, decisions regarding delays, early dismissals, or closures will be made at the discretion of the Director, in consultation with the College of Applied Human Sciences. These decisions are made with careful consideration of the safety and well-being of students, families, and staff. Families will be notified of any schedule changes in a timely manner using the program’s established communication methods

Personal Items and Storage

Each child is assigned a labeled cubby for personal belongings. To prevent loss or damage, children should not bring personal toys or items to school. Please leave these items in your car or at home.

Required Items for Attendance

• A change of seasonal clothing must be provided. Families may be called to pick up their child if extra clothing is not available.
• Plastic bags, bags with drawstrings, or similar items are not permitted due to suffocation risks.

Items Not Permitted at School

The WVU Laboratory School carefully selects equipment and materials to optimize learning experiences. As such, personal toys from home are not allowed unless specifically requested or preapproved by the teacher.

Reasons for this policy include:

• Potential injury to other children
• The inability of teachers to monitor toys while supervising students
• The challenge of young children understanding possession, which may lead to conflicts
• Toys that promote aggressive behavior, such as toy guns, are not aligned with our program’s philosophy

Nutrition and Meals

The Early Learning Institute provides snacks that meet USDA nutrition guidelines and are verified by the WV Department of Education Office of Child Nutrition.

Illness and Absences

Children must stay home if they have a fever or a contagious illness until cleared by a physician. If a child becomes ill at school, parents will be contacted. If parents cannot be reached, the school will call emergency contacts. Sick children will be isolated until they are picked up.

Field Trips

The Nursery School organizes occasional local field trips. Each trip requires a signed parental permission form with DHHR-required information. Parents will receive prior notice. If a child is not participating, they should remain home that day.

Appropriate Dress

Children engage in hands-on activities daily, including painting, water play, and outdoor exploration. Please dress your child in comfortable play clothes suitable for these activities.

Outdoor play is a daily part of our program. Children must have appropriate seasonal clothing, including coats, hats, mittens, boots, and snow pants (or an extra pair of pants). All clothing items should be labeled with the child’s first and last name. A physician’s note is required to exempt a child from outdoor play.

Clothing and Safety Guidelines

• Clothing with drawstrings is not permitted.
• Closed-toe shoes are required to prevent injuries.

By following these guidelines, we ensure a safe and enriching experience for all children at the Early Learning Institute.